Ballot replacement sought for judge’s race

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – The Mahoning County Democratic Party is seeking candidates for Mahoning County Common Pleas Court judge in the November election.

The move is necessary after Boardman attorney Mark Hanni resigned his candidacy on Friday.

Democratic Party Chairman David Betras said interested candidates seeking the party’s nomination can contact him until 5 p.m. Friday via email at dbetras@bhlaws.com or by phone at 330-503-9696.

Betras said members of the Mahoning County Democratic Party’s Central Committee will meet Aug. 9 at St. Luke Parish Hall to select the party’s candidate for the post in the Nov. 4 election, along with choosing a candidate for Judge James Evans’ seat. If someone chooses to run, they would run against incumbent Mahoning County Common Pleas Court Judge Maureen Sweeney.

“I encourage anyone interested in the position to submit their name and begin contacting the members of the Central Committee,” Betras said. “Our process is open and fair and our only goal is to nominate a highly qualified candidate who will win in November and then serve the people of Mahoning County with distinction and honor in the years ahead.”

Hanni said he withdrew for personal and family reasons. He previously threw his name in the ring for the Court of Appeals seat, but later withdrew in favor of the Common Pleas race.